Nissan Repair: 1998 nissan maxima (automatic) wont start, nissan maxima, turning the key

Question
I drove my car to the store one day, then went to the gas
station.  When I went to start the car, nothing.  I noticed
a clicking noise and sometimes nothing at all.  Someone
went to give me a boost but still nothing.  The battery was
old and in need of changing anyway so I decided to do this
first.  I tried to start the car and same thing.  Just a
clicking noise.  Someone went to give me a boost again with
the new battery and on the first couple tries nothing.  
Then it finally started.  I reved the engine and kept it
going for a few minutes and drove the car home.  It was a
very short drive (across the street).  I parked the car and
turned it off.  Went to start the car and it started but
reluctantly.  I did this three or four times and each time
it sounded like when you have the engine started and keep
turning the key.  Like a grinding noise.  I tried it again
and nothing.  No clicking or anything.  All the lights and
everything work but the car won't start or even turn over.  
Is there a problem with the starter?  Any advice would be
greatly appreciated.

Answer
Hi Robert -

I would definitely check the starter. When the car is in a no start mode, try hitting the starter with a hammer while someone tries to start it. If it does start, then the starter is your problem. In any case I would replace the starter.

Hope this helps -
aloha
calvin